There’s something comforting about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the house. It’s a timeless classic, a treat that never fails to delight. Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite banana bread recipes that promises to elevate your baking game to new heights.

Ingredients:

5 large very ripe bananas (peeled)
8 tbsp unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
2 large eggs (beaten until well combined)
¾ cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ¾ cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ tsp cinnamon
½ cup pecans (toasted and coarsely chopped (optional))
1 tbsp turbinado sugar (sprinkled on top of batter before baking)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat an 8 x 4 loaf pan with coconut oil cooking spray (or regular).
2. Peel 5 bananas and place them in a microwave-safe bowl; cover with plastic wrap then cut a few slits for air vents.
3. Place into the microwave and cook for 4-5 minutes on high.
4. Remove from the microwave and pour into a strainer that’s placed over a bowl. Let the banana liquid drain into the bowl, stirring the bananas occasionally, for 15 minutes. You should have about 1/2 cup of liquid.
5. Transfer the banana liquid into a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
6. Boil the liquid, stirring often, until reduced by half (about 1/4 cup).
7. Transfer the cooked/mashed bananas into a large mixing bowl.
8. Pour the reduced banana liquid over the mashed/cooked banana, stir until fairly smooth.
9. Whisk in the brown sugar, two eggs, and the cooled melted butter and vanilla extract.
10. Whisk together in a small bowl, the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
11. Gradually add the flour mixture to the banana mixture until just combined.
12. Add the toasted pecans and combine.
13. Pour into the prepared loaf pan.
14. Sprinkle the top of the batter evenly with turbinado sugar.
15. Place into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
16. Remove from the oven and cool bread in pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes, then remove loaf from pan and continue to cool on wire rack. Serve and enjoy.

Why I Love This Recipe:

1. Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious loaf of banana bread in no time.
2. Versatile: This banana bread recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of Nutella for an extra indulgent treat.
3. Moist and Tender Crumb: Thanks to the addition of ripe bananas and melted butter, this banana bread boasts a moist and tender crumb that’s simply irresistible.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch or need a quick and easy snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, this banana bread fits the bill.

Final Thoughts:

Banana bread holds a special place in many of our hearts, evoking memories of home and hearth. With this tried-and-true recipe, you can create your own moments of joy and comfort, one slice at a time. So go ahead, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a slice of heavenly banana bread goodness. You deserve it.